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Royal NLR is a renowned international research institution for applied research in the aerospace industry. We are a non-profit organisation and operate independently and objectively, with a focus on multidisciplinary expertise and state-of-the-art research infrastructure. Our research, capabilities, concepts and high-tech facilities contribute to the development of practical and scientifically proven solutions that have a tangible impact and can support your organisation’s goals. With a broad range of activities covering the full spectrum of Research, Development, Testing & Evaluation (RDT & E), we provide comprehensive support to organisations in the aerospace sector. We collaborate with government agencies and organisations across a broad range of activities, and offer expert advice and support to help them achieve their objectives.


Aviation industry

NLR supports the aviation industry with innovative research and development, conducting research and developing new technologies and solutions to improve the efficiency, sustainability, and safety of aviation. This enables us to translate trends and developments into concrete solutions that help the aviation industry achieve its goals. Within the civil and military aerospace industry, we support the development of systems and subsystems, from concept to implementation, and provide services to a wide range of clients, including aircraft manufacturers, Tier 1, 2, and other suppliers, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).


Civil aviation

The aviation industry’s growing requirements for improved efficiency, sustainability, and safety, combined with the need for enhanced resilience and cost savings, necessitate groundbreaking solutions. Royal NLR addresses these challenges by focusing its innovative R&D and solutions on delivering sustainable, efficient, and safe aviation practices, as well as empowering stakeholders to optimize their performance. Our integrated approach, which combines in-house research and a unique research infrastructure, enables us to develop and implement novel solutions. By translating industry trends and developments into actionable solutions, NLR supports aviation companies, air traffic control, airports, regulatory bodies, and government agencies in achieving their goals.


Space

NLR is a trusted partner for both industry and government in the development of space technology, collaborating closely on the design and development of satellites, payloads, and launch systems. Our expertise spans lightweight composite structures, additive manufacturing, and the utilisation of satellite data for a range of civil and military applications. We provide comprehensive support to companies and government agencies throughout the entire development process, from initial concept to final production, and develop tailored hardware and software solutions to meet their specific needs. Additionally, our state-of-the-art testing facilities enable us to thoroughly test, verify, and validate products under a variety of conditions, ensuring their reliability and performance.

NLR facility -Thermal test lab

Defence

NLR has over 100 years of experience in the defence industry and supports the Royal Netherlands Air Force in daily operations, lifecycle management and training. NLR offers a wide range of services, including technical and operational support for air defence platforms, lifecycle management of military air and space systems, and support for determining and implementing military aviation standards. NLR also conducts research into the environmental impact of military aviation and advises the Ministry of Defence on policy formation. Furthermore, NLR develops effective training programs for aviation personnel.

NH90 rotorcraft with flares

Contact persons:

Jan Terlingen

Contact for Aviation Industry

May Kerstens

Contact for Space

Arno Rook

Contact for Defence Industry

Egbert Smit

Contact for Defence


ACM Pilot Plant at NLR Marknesse

Areas of expertise

Areas of expertise NLR conducts research and develops knowledge and technological solutions for applications in aerospace. Our researchers work on various innovative technologies and methods that are universally applicable and can be used in various projects. To effectively apply these technologies and methods, we have organised this knowledge into ‘Areas of expertise’. Each area represents […]
NLR Aeroacoustic Wind Tunnel - AWT at NLR Marknesse

Research infrastructure

Research infrastructure NLR’s research infrastructure comprises a diverse range of facilities and equipment, forming the foundation of our applied research. Our state-of-the-art facilities are accessible to companies and other research institutions, allowing for collaborative innovation. Explore our extensive facilities here and learn how they can support your project.

Capabilities

Filter Discover our capabilities The research and expertise we’ve developed for technological and societal solutions have universal applicability. Explore our capabilities to discover how they can be customised to meet the specific needs of your project or organisation. Contact us to learn more about how we can support you.